A church with music is a little like an ocean at high tide. The waters of inspiration peak and the depths broaden when music swells to its fullest. You'd have to look hard to find a church that doesn't celebrate the ideas of its message with the artistry of vocal melodies and joyful instrumentation. And clearly, church musicians take a significant part in these ministries.
Edwin C. Starner and Julia Wade, organist and soloist, respectively, of The Mother Church—The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston—say that the goal of their musical performances in church is healing. Always.
Ed Starner, who has made his home for the past 13 years perched behind the keys of the grand Aeolian-Skinner that tops out at 13,290 pipes (one of the largest pipe organs in the world), earned a Bachelor of Music in Organ Performance and a Master of Music in Piano Accompanying and Coaching from Westminster Choir College of Rider University in Princeton, New Jersey. Before his current appointment, his career included teaching organ at his alma mater as well as serving as director of continuing education there. Beyond his academic background, Ed has also served as organist and choral director in several major US East Coast churches.
